Hanekom hits out at Mbalula over secret vote

Author: Staff Reporter

Updated: 08:15 14-08-2017

African National Congress (ANC) Member of Parliament (MPs) Derek Hanekom has questioned Police Minister Fikile Mbalula’s call to have all those present for Tuesday’s secret ballot to undergo a lie detector test.

The Police Minister on 9 August tweeted a meme linked to the motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma challenging ANC MPs to take a lie detector test as a proof of loyalty.

On 8 August, Zuma survived a no confidence vote which was held by secret ballot, with 198 MPs voting against the motion while 177 voted for Zuma to step down.

This means that at least 30 ANC MPs supported the no confidence vote.

Hanekom replied to Mbalula’s tweet, reminding him to align his priorities with his mandate as Police Minister, rather than disrespect the sanctity of the secret vote which was agreed upon by all parties.

Mbalula isn’t the first ANC member to speak out against members who voted for Zuma to go.

The ruling party’s treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize has called for action against members who “defied” the party, saying they should face disciplinary action.

ANC MP Lindiwe Zulu has also criticised some members, saying it unacceptable that they voted with the opposition.

Mbalula threatened MPs over the vote earlier last month, warning of disciplinary action if they voted with the opposition.